4teaspoonsfreshly ground canela (a soft and fragrant type of cinnamon; canela chips are easiest to grind)
4teaspoonsfreshly ground cloves
1tablespoonfreshly ground green (not white) cardamom pods
½teaspoonwhole cardamom seed
Ingredients for Chai Tea
4cupsskim milk
1cupwater
3tablespoonsbest-quality Darjeeling tea or to taste
1teaspoondried lemongrass
¼teaspoonMasala Chai, or to taste
Sugar or honey to taste
Instructions
Masala Chai Spice
In a small bowl, thoroughly stir together the canela, cloves, ground cardamom pods and whole cardamom seeds. Store airtight for up to 1 month at room temperature or freeze for up to 3 months.
Chai Tea
In a small, heavy saucepan over low heat combine the milk, water, tea, lemongrass and chai. Bring gradually to a simmer, stirring once or twice. Remove from the heat, cover and let steep for 5 to 10 minutes, depending on how strong you want the tea.
Strain the tea into cups, add sugar or honey to taste and serve immediately.Serves 2-4; makes about 4 cups.Note: The lemongrass makes the chai especially stimulating, but it can be omitted if desired.